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Writer's pictureJacqueline Domenici

The Mind of a British Shorthair Cat: Temperament is Everything


British Shorthair laying on the bed
My British Shorthair cat Salem

There are commonly held beliefs like "trying to understand the mind of a cat is a near impossible task" or that "cats are not as affectionate or as loyal as dogs". I am 52 years old and have lived with and owned cats for all but 9 of those years. My 43 years of living with cats has taught me that neither of the above statements are true. In reality, a majority of the stereotypes people know and believe about cats are completely wrong. While some breeds of cats are more reserved than others, and the British Shorthair is in the reserved club, this factor is more of an individual trait than a genetic standard. When you bring any animal into your life and home you are not only responsible for its physical well-being and health, you must also understand and strive to meet its emotional needs as well. Early on in the Netflix documentary 'Inside the Mind of a Cat', Dr. Wailani Sung, Director of Behavior and Welfare at the San Francisco SPCA, offers up some advice for new owners who are planning on bringing a cat into the family and some tips on forming a bond with your new pet:


Cats blink slowly to indicate that they're friendly to other creatures; it's essentially like smiling and spreading positive emotions. So, if you want to get a new cat to like you, try giving them a slow blink before you get too close. 

British Shorthairs are known for their round faces, dense coats, and sturdy build. They are a popular breed with a long history in England. British Shorthairs are an easygoing and dignified breed, not as active and playful as many when they mature, but sweet-natured and devoted to their owners. They tend to be safe around other pets and children since they will tolerate a fair amount of physical interaction, but as a rule do not like to be picked up or carried. British Shorthair cats have a quiet temperament, and if they trust their owners, they are vigilant and will silently follow their owner's activities and stay with them. I have owned a British Shorthair for the last 5 years and can attest that this is 100% accurate. My black smoke BSH pet cat, Salem, silently follows me around the house and will sleep quietly on the arm of the couch while I watch TV or read. He sleeps next to my feet every night. He is always present. He will protest loudly if there is a closed door between us, but still tenses up if I try to pick him up and walk around with him.


Salem on the couch
Whenever he is looking at, it wasn't worth leaving his spot for.

British Shorthair cats are not lap cats. Most British Shorthairs prefer the feeling of having their feet on the ground or having something stable underneath them. They are more accustomed to staying beside people than squatting on peoples' laps. As I am writing this blog at my kitchen island, Salem is sitting in the island chair behind me, purring and intermittently nudging me in the back to remind me that he is there and that I must scratch and pet him on demand.

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Salem sleeping on the couch
Salem sleeping on the end of the couch

If you decide to bring a British Shorthair kitten home from Farmhouse Brits, it is important to understand that you will be getting a kitten that has been socialized and confident, but will mostly not be a "lap" cat. You will have a constantly "present" cat. Your British Shorthair kitten may not seek out your lap, but will likely lay right beside you, follow you around and be an ever present observing companion in your home. They are not overly active cats once they mature and make the perfect indoor cats who will be waiting to welcome you home once you return. British Shorthairs kittens are, well, kittens and will display the normal amount of kitten energy for up to approximately a year of age, but will then begin to grow calmer and eventually just chill and hang out. The breed is slow to mature and will not reach full adulthood until 4-5 years of age. A British Shorthair is rarely vocal, but will greet their trusted family members with great rumbling purrs. They are steady, quiet, and affectionate companions who are well mannered and intelligent.



kittens
Aspen and August Summer 2023 (June & Gitano)

Adopting a kitten is a long-term commitment, and it is important to provide a loving and nurturing home for your new furry friend. Make sure you have the time, resources, and dedication to care for a kitten throughout its life. Additionally, consider the financial responsibilities that come with a pet, including high-quality food, litter, toys, and veterinary expenses.



Asher farmhouse brits kitten
Asher Summer 2023 (May and Gitano)

If you are considering bringing a British Shorthair kitten into your family, Farmhouse Brits could be a great option. When adopting a kitten, it is important to research and choose a reputable breeder like Farmhouse Brits. Reputable breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their kittens and cats and ensure that they are raised in a clean and loving environment. One way we prioritize the health and happiness of our queens, is to give them time to recover between litters. We only have one litter per queen per year. By adopting a British Shorthair kitten from Farmhouse Brits, you can have confidence in the health and well-being of your new pet. Enjoy the journey of welcoming a new member into your family and creating cherished memories with your adorable and loving British Shorthair kitten.




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